Argument in Mesa leads to shooting; suspect arrested

MESA, Ariz. -- Mesa police arrested a suspect in a shooting that started with an argument Monday afternoon.

Police responded to reports of shots being fired at a home near Broadway Road and Stapley Drive shortly before 5 p.m. Officers arrested the resident, Derek Rory McMillian, 22.

The 22-year-old victim had already left the scene. Police located his vehicle near Mesa Drive and Eighth Avenue. The victim, his girlfriend and 2-year-old son were inside.

The victim told police he drove to McMillian's home to talk to him about talking disrespectfully to his girlfriend, according to court documents. He parked across the street and walked toward McMillian's house, leaving his girlfriend and son in the car.

When the victim started to walk onto the driveway, McMillian shot at him through a closed screen door, according to police. A bullet struck the victim in the right ankle.

Police said four bullets traveled across the street and through a wall that was under construction, causing damage.

The victim's girlfriend told police that she feared she or her child would be struck by the bullets.

During an interview with police, McMillian reportedly admitted to having an argument with the victim on the phone prior to the shooting and to knowing other people were inside the car because he heard them during the phone conversation.

McMillian also told police that the victim reached into his waistband for something while he was walking toward the house, according to the court paperwork. McMillian said he assumed the man was reaching for a gun, although he never saw one.

The victim was treated and released from the hospital.

McMillian faces charges of unlawful discharge of a firearm, disorderly conduct, two counts of endangerment and criminal damage.